CITU to launch indefinite protest at Jantar Mantar from December 1
Over one lakh workers are expected to participate in the demonstration demanding the repeal of labour codes and protection of workers' rights.
The Centre of Indian Trade Unions (CITU) will begin an indefinite protest at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi on December 1. According to The Hindu, the agitation aims to demand the protection of workers' rights and the repeal of labour codes described as anti-worker.
CITU State unit president S. Varalakshmi said during a press conference in Kalaburagi on November 2 that over 1 lakh workers from across the country are expected to attend. She noted that workers from Karnataka and other states had already booked around 40,000 travel tickets.
Ms. Varalakshmi alleged that workers protesting workplace deaths and violations of livelihood rights are being victimised through arrests, criminal cases, and dismissals. She stated that such measures undermine democratic rights.
The union's demands include a minimum monthly wage of ₹42,000, a pension of ₹21,000, and the recognition of scheme workers as workers with statutory benefits. They are also seeking the regularisation of contract workers and equal pay for equal work.
Other demands include filling vacant posts, workplace safety, and comprehensive social security for unorganised-sector workers. The CITU also seeks the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar and the scrapping of the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls.
Citing National Crime Records Bureau data, Ms. Varalakshmi said 52,910 suicides among daily-wage and unorganised workers were reported in 2024. She also raised concerns regarding anaemia among 57 per cent of women and stunted growth in 29 per cent to 35.5 per cent of children.